Shinn Groves/Tree O'Groves Inc.

Commissioner's Agricultural-Environmental Leadership Award

Four generations of the Shinn family, including current Shinn Groves owner James Shinn, have been involved in environmentally friendly agriculture. The farm's conservation practices emphasize the importance of clean air, clean water and native wildlife habitats.

Shinn uses Best Management Practices (BMPs) to maintain water quality. Slow-release fertilizers and composting in the groves prevent runoff and protect native habitats.

Shinn is proactive in wildlife preservation, using border areas as a buffer around the groves. Border areas preserve habitat and provide a wildlife corridor.

When citrus greening impacted his groves, Shinn looked to diversify. He began growing peaches successfully, and now he generously shares his knowledge with his fellow growers and the community. Many of the sustainable practices used in citrus also apply to peach production.

Shinn uses new varieties of citrus and peaches, improved rootstocks and nutritional programs. He participates in the "Fast Track" program, which tests new varieties on the farm. Shinn's involvement in citrus and peach research assists the University of Florida's Citrus Research and Education Center in Lake Alfred.

James Shinn has demonstrated resilience as a grower; he has proven that you can have an operation that is successful and that coexists with nature.